By Mallika Bhagat

Copyright timesnownews

Ask any mother (or a doctor) and they’ll tell you why breast milk is often called liquid gold. This lifesaving elixir is more than just food for a new born; it is a child’s first immunisation, especially for premature and critically ill babies. Packed with antibodies, essential nutrients and enzymes, it helps protect fragile infants from infections, supports brain development, and strengthens immunity. For babies born too early or without access to their mother’s milk, donor breast milk can, quite literally, mean the difference between life and death. And there are some women who have taken up a generous cause: donating breast milk so babies without access to it can be saved. Among them is badminton star Jwala Gutta. When the ace sportsperson welcomed her daughter Mira earlier this year, she also extended her care to babies in neonatal intensive care units. By donating 30 litres of breast milk to a government hospital, she gave premature, critically ill, and motherless infants a better chance at life. Her act, while being thoughtful and timely, also highlights the lack of conversation about breast milk donation in India. In India, where only a few milk banks currently exist, donor milk can be the difference between survival and loss for thousands of fragile newborns. If you’re someone who is considering donating milk, here is a ready reckoner. Can I Donate Breast Milk In India?Many mothers don’t realise they are eligible to donate. Here are the key guidelines: Who Can Donate? A lactating woman who:Is in good health and takes only safe medications (like prenatal vitamins, thyroid hormones, or low-dose birth control)Is willing to undergo basic blood tests for infectionsHas enough milk after feeding her own baby, who is thrivingWho Cannot Donate? Donation is not allowed if the mother: Uses illegal drugs, tobacco, or excessive alcohol/caffeineTests positive for HIV, Hepatitis B/C, HTLV, or syphilisHas high-risk exposure to infections through herself or partnerHad organ/tissue transplants or blood transfusions in the past yearIs taking toxic medications or exposed to harmful chemicalsHas active infections like mastitis, fungal infections, or herpes on the breast Where Can I Donate Breast Milk In India?Currently, breast milk donation is limited to a handful of facilities in the country. Some of the recognised milk banks and hospitals as per reports include: Sion Hospital, MumbaiSurya Hospitals (Mumbai, Pune, Jaipur)Rainbow Children’s Hospital, HyderabadDPU Hospital, PuneAmaara Human Milk Bank, DelhiHow Can I Donate Breast Milk?The process is simple: Contact an approved milk bank near you.Screening and consent (basic health and lifestyle checks are conducted).Collection and storage (milk is expressed, pasteurised, tested for safety, and stored).Distribution (the milk is given to premature and critically ill infants under medical supervision).